Thank you for checking out my website. If you are interested in crochet, knitting, historic textiles and garments, and other crafts, you may find some really cool things here. I have a special interest in textile history and the evolution of the technology, so to speak. I look forward to sharing the new things I learn and explore.

Classes and Events

I love to teach and share all the things I learn. If you see something on this site that you would like to learn more about, please contact me. For more information about an event on the calendar, just click

Calendar Key:Scheduled Classes are in Purple; Cool Events are in Green

Homework: Make a single crochet tension swatch at least 5 inches wide and 3 inches long (bigger is better).

Outline:

Introductions and discussion of techniques, passing around samples

Measuring gauge and feet, filling in worksheet

Toe

Instep

Custom fitting & ankle

Heel

Cuff & Finishing

Description: Kim Kotary, the author of You Can Crochet Socks and Learn to Crochet Socks the Toe-Up Way published
by Annie’s Attic, will use a basic single crochet sock pattern to teach
you how to custom fit socks for yourself and all your friends. By
measuring your own gauge swatch and plugging your stitch count and foot
measurements into a little algebra, you can customize any pattern in
Kim’s book. While you are working on your sock, Kim will also share
ideas for adding stitch patterns to the instep and cuff.

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner – students must be able to ch, sl st, dc, count stitches, read a basic pattern and chart. Any symbols used will be explained in class.

Materials:

Booklet containing history of filet “slides” and instructions provided by instructor for a small materials fee

Cotton yarn or thread and appropriate size hook

Basic tool kit containing darning needle and scissors

Homework: None

Outline:

Introductions and discussion of history, tools and techniques, passing around contemporary and antique samples

Learning basic techniques

Making a square motif following same filet chart used for Filet lace class (105 min)

Additional material if time allows – increasing and decreasing, bars and lacets

Description: Have you ever considered how different types or styles of crochet evolved? The predecessor of filet crochet can be documented from textiles and publications of the 19th Century. We will learn about the background and evolution of this popular style of crochet. We will work a design from a chart. If you have never used symbol crochet, this is a good way to get your feet wet. Please note that this is a very basic introduction to the technique (I would be happy to provide a more in depth examination of the techniques in a full day class).

Introductions and discussion of techniques and tools, pass around samples (30 min)

Spinning yarn

Weaving

Finishing

Demonstration with Drop Spindle, if time allows.

Description: When we twist a bunch of wool fibers, we can stretch the bunch out and make a yarn. In this class, students will work in pairs and serve as each other’s spinning wheel to turn fluffy wool roving into yarn. Then they will weave that yarn on a basic loom to learn the basic structure of fabric. We will discuss the evolution of textile production and the Industrial Revolution. This workshop gives students a real appreciation for technological innovation and the changing value of textiles through history.

After the class is finished the squares can be donated to Warm-Up America or the Jewish Board of Family Services' Sanctuary Stitchers Project

Outline - During the class students will:

Learn how to read and use symbol diagrams

Write a pattern from a symbol diagram

Write a basic 9 inch granny square pattern

Write and edit patterns for squares and motifs made by their classmates

Description: Are you inspired by yarn but don’t have a published pattern for it? Are you ready to move beyond published patterns and create your own designs? Would you like help preparing a design for publication? If you know how to increase and decrease and have ever finished a sweater, you are ready for this class. With a little inspiration and a few basic tools, you can create your own original designs. In this three-hour hands-on workshop, you can make a flat paper sloper to fit yourself, learn about sizing patterns and how to create fabric for your customized design.

2 or more granny squares with at least 4 rounds each.
A swatch or 2 in your favorite stitches or patterns.

Extra yarn for each piece.

A piece in need of repair (optional) with yarn or thread matching as close as possible.

Description:Do
you have a family heirloom in need of a little TLC? Did a critter find
your favorite afghan while it was in storage? Does your favorite
sweater have a unwanted hole in it? In this class, we will examine the
structure of crochet stitches and learn how to remove and replace
stitches in the middle of the fabric without remaking the entire piece.
Learn from a trained textile conservator with years of experience in
museums and private practice.

Materials: Handout booklet (provided by instructor for a materials fee)

Description:Do
you collect vintage textiles or clothing? Do you have pieces that are
family heirlooms? Learn from a trained conservator with years of museum
experience how to help your collections last forever. Some basic
chemistry will help you understand more about the special
characteristics of different kinds of fibers. Learn how to identify,
eradicate, and prevent future infestations by pests without the use of
chemicals. Learn about cleaning, storage materials, and techniques to
help prevent future damage and deterioration. If you want advice on a
specific piece in your collection, please bring it to share with the
class.

Description: Do
you have a sweater or afghan you would like to spruce up? Do you have a
stain you would like to cover up? Would you like to make an extra
special gift or design? A little embroidery might be just the thing to
take your project to a completely new level. In this class, you can
learn a variety of embroidery techniques and tips from a professional
embroiderer.

Kim helped me sew a skirt for my daughter. She was very knowledgeable, very nice and took the time to find my building and neighborhood. Kim loves sewing and all textile work, and shares her knowledge and enthusiasm generously.

Joy Aug 18, 2013

Kim did a fantastic job teaching my daughter to sew. She saw it through beginning to end. I am extremely pleased with her service. Thank you.

Linda Aug 14, 2013

Kim is a great teacher.Her patient and easy to understand style is only complemented by her extensive knowledge.Even though I have been crocheting for decades,she added,in just our first lesson,things I have never done before.I am looking forward to our future lessons with so much enthusiasm.Have not yet seen anything in her teaching style that needs improvement.I think she has the confidence and professionalism to do all that she aspires to.Absolutely impressed!

Jane Jun 5, 2013

very friendly, very patient, sweet and informative. Definitely recommend!